LA Galaxy legend Robbie Keane is back with the Republic of Ireland National Team — but this time he won’t be scoring goals.

The nation’s all-time leading scorer is joining the team as an assistant coach, announced Sunday by the Republic of Ireland Football Association. He, and former teammate Terry Connor, will be part of newly appointed head coach Mick McCarthy’s staff. The duo of assistant coaches played under McCarthy in the Republic of Ireland’s run in the FIFA 2002 World Cup, in which they reached the Round of 16 losing in penalties to Spain. Keane scored three goals in the Republic of Ireland’s four matches in the tournament.

McCarthy had nothing but praise when asked about Keane’s presence on the coaching staff.

“He will have a real affinity with the young players; he is their hero. And he’ll be driving up and down the country watching players and reporting back to me.”

Keane retired from international play in 2016, amassing 68 goals in 18-years making him the fourth highest scoring European of all-time. His tally of 146 caps is also a record for the national team.

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